28432, Clarendon, North Carolina Breast Cancer Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Breast Cancer Score in 28432, Clarendon, North Carolina is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 91.39 percent of the residents in 28432 has some form of health insurance. 45.18 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.58 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 28432 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 323 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 3 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 28432. An estimate of 2 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 284 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 1,231 health care providers accessible to residents in 28432, Clarendon, North Carolina.

This analysis examines the landscape of breast cancer care within ZIP code 28432, focusing on physician availability, healthcare infrastructure, and related resources. We'll also consider the broader context of primary care accessibility in Clarendon County, where this ZIP code is located, to provide a holistic view of the healthcare ecosystem. The goal is to assess the quality and accessibility of breast cancer care, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement.

The core of effective breast cancer care lies in the availability of skilled medical professionals. In ZIP code 28432, a key factor is the physician-to-patient ratio, specifically concerning primary care physicians (PCPs), general surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists. A low ratio, indicating a shortage of doctors, can lead to delayed diagnoses, longer wait times for appointments, and potentially poorer health outcomes. Conversely, a higher ratio suggests better access to care. Determining the precise physician-to-patient ratio requires detailed data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and state medical boards. This data should be regularly updated to reflect changes in physician staffing and population demographics.

Beyond raw numbers, the quality of care also depends on the expertise of the physicians. Are the oncologists board-certified? Do the radiologists specialize in breast imaging? Are the surgeons experienced in breast-conserving surgeries? Investigating the qualifications and specializations of the available physicians is crucial. Furthermore, the availability of support staff, such as nurse navigators, who guide patients through the complexities of diagnosis and treatment, significantly impacts the patient experience.

Standout practices within 28432 deserve recognition. These are healthcare providers that demonstrate excellence in breast cancer care. This could include practices with a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and other specialists to collaborate on patient care. Practices that offer advanced diagnostic technologies, such as 3D mammography (tomosynthesis) and MRI, also warrant attention. Another important factor is patient satisfaction. Gathering patient feedback through surveys and reviews can reveal valuable insights into the quality of care, the communication skills of the medical staff, and the overall patient experience.

Telemedicine adoption is increasingly relevant, especially in rural areas like Clarendon County. Telemedicine can bridge geographical barriers, allowing patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even support groups remotely. The availability of telemedicine services for breast cancer patients in 28432 is a significant indicator of accessibility. Does the local hospital or clinics offer virtual consultations? Are there options for remote monitoring of patients undergoing treatment? Practices that embrace telemedicine can improve patient convenience and reduce the burden of travel.

Mental health resources are integral to comprehensive breast cancer care. A cancer diagnosis can trigger significant emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and fear. The availability of mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, who specialize in oncology, is essential. Does the local healthcare system provide access to these resources? Are support groups available for patients and their families? Addressing the psychological needs of patients is crucial for their overall well-being and can positively impact their treatment outcomes.

The broader context of primary care availability in Clarendon County is also important. Primary care physicians often serve as the first point of contact for patients, and they play a vital role in screening, early detection, and referrals. A shortage of PCPs can hinder access to timely care and delay the diagnosis of breast cancer. Assessing the availability of PCPs, the average wait times for appointments, and the geographic distribution of primary care practices within Clarendon County provides a broader understanding of the healthcare landscape.

Analyzing the data related to breast cancer care in 28432 and primary care in Clarendon County reveals a complex picture. The availability of specialists, the adoption of telemedicine, and the integration of mental health resources are all crucial factors. A comprehensive analysis would involve collecting data from various sources, including physician directories, hospital websites, patient surveys, and public health agencies.

The analysis should also take into account the socioeconomic factors that can impact access to care. These factors include income levels, insurance coverage, and transportation availability. Low-income individuals and those without adequate insurance may face significant barriers to accessing timely and appropriate care. Addressing these disparities requires targeted interventions, such as financial assistance programs, transportation services, and outreach initiatives.

Another important aspect of assessing breast cancer care is the availability of patient education and support programs. These programs can empower patients to make informed decisions about their health and treatment. Does the local hospital or clinic offer educational materials, support groups, or survivorship programs? Providing patients with the knowledge and resources they need can improve their quality of life and treatment outcomes.

The analysis should also consider the role of community organizations in supporting breast cancer patients. These organizations often provide valuable services, such as financial assistance, transportation, and emotional support. Identifying and partnering with these organizations can enhance the overall quality of care.

Ultimately, the goal of this analysis is to provide a clear and concise assessment of the breast cancer care landscape in 28432 and the surrounding area. By identifying strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for improvement, healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations can work together to ensure that all patients have access to high-quality, timely, and compassionate care.

This data, when visualized, can be a powerful tool for understanding the healthcare landscape. To explore the breast cancer care landscape in ZIP code 28432 and the surrounding areas, and to visualize the data discussed, consider using CartoChrome maps. CartoChrome offers a dynamic and interactive platform for visualizing healthcare data, allowing you to explore physician availability, access to care, and other relevant factors in a visually compelling way.